Nursing
Associate in Science (A.S.)
The Nursing Associate in Science (A.S.) degree program at Valencia College prepares you to go directly into a specialized career in the nursing field. Due to the current shortage of skilled nurses, there are tremendous opportunities in nursing. This nationally-accredited program at Valencia College is one of the best for preparing men and women for nursing careers, by connecting students directly to situations nurses face today. The program offers classroom curriculum together with real life clinical experiences to help nurses build skills and confidence. The Nursing program at Valencia College is limited-access, meaning that admission to the college does not imply acceptance to the Nursing program. Students must apply and be accepted to the program. Upon completion of the program, you will be prepared to take the National Council Licensure Exam to become a registered nurse (RN).
The Nursing Associate in Science (A.S.) degree program at Valencia College is coordinated with local health care agencies, the State Department of Education and the State Board of Nursing.
Have questions, or want more information?
This program is designed for students who seek employment in the field of nursing and who may decide to continue to any Florida public university as a junior to complete a four-year bachelor's degree in nursing through a R.N. to B.S.N. (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) program.
Program Length
72 credits
5 semesters
(after completion of the required general education courses)
This option is designed for LPNs (Licensed Practical Nurses), Paramedics, Registered Invasive Cardiovascular Specialists (CVTs) and RRTs (Registered Respiratory Therapists) who want to earn an A.S. degree in Nursing.
Program Length
72 credits
3 semesters
(after completion of the required general education courses)
This track provides a unique dual enrollment opportunity, allowing students to seek the Associate in Science in Nursing (A.S.N.) from Valencia and the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (B.S.N.) from the University of Central Florida simultaneously. For more information, visit UCF’s College of Nursing website.
Program Length
5 semesters
(after completion of the required general education courses)
Followed by as little as 1 year at UCF
Have questions?
Program Details
Courses and Details
Review course descriptions, important dates and deadlines and other program details in the official college catalog.
Learn How To
- Assess patient health problems and needs, develop nursing care plans and provide care to patients who are injured or disabled
- Assist patients in their rehabilitation to reach maximum levels of functioning
- Care for the physical and emotional well-being of patients
- Protect patients' safety and personal rights
- Use critical thinking skills to make clinical decisions alone or in collaboration with the patient's significant other and/or other members of the health care team
You want to step up. We have a path to a bachelor's
Build on your skills and increase your opportunities for career advancement after earning your A.S. in Nursing degree by continuing your education at Valencia College, and completing your Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree or an Advanced Technical Certificate. We encourage you to consult with a program advisor to determine the best education plan for your career goals.
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing
- Advanced Technical Certificate in Echocardiography
- Advanced Technical Certificate in Leadership in Healthcare
CERTIFICATE
When you choose the Healthcare Specialist technical certificate as your secondary degree pathway, you will earn a workforce credential while completing prerequisite course credits, many of which are requirements for the selective admissions health career programs at Valencia College. Earning this certificate is an important first step in your career—your classes can help you become more valuable to our local health care employers.
Career Outlook
Job Outlook
Registered Nurses are projected to gain the second largest number of new jobs among all occupations in Florida over the next decade as demand for healthcare increases. Employment of registered nurses is projected to grow 26 percent from 2014 to 2022 in our Region—faster than the average for all occupations. Growth will occur for a number of reasons, including an increased emphasis on preventative care; growing rates of chronic conditions; a growing number of people with access to healthcare services; and the demand for healthcare services from an aging population. (Florida Bureau of Labor Market Statistics)
Potential Careers
- Registered Nurse
AVERAGE SALARY RANGE
$40,000 - $50,000
Placement Rate
The average placement rate for Valencia College A.S. degree and certificate programs ranges between 90 – 95%, according to the latest FETPIP data.
Steps for Nursing Admission
- Attend a Nursing Information Session. Please bring a copy of the program guide for your desired track with you. If you are not local and cannot attend the information session, review the program guide and read the Nursing Frequently Asked Questions.
- Apply to Valencia College.
- Complete required general education courses before applying to the nursing program.
- Once your transcripts have been received and evaluated, and if you meet eligibility requirements, you can apply to the Nursing program.
Note: Transfer students and current Valencia College students must schedule an appointment to talk to a student success coach prior to submitting the Nursing application.
All applicants must complete compliance and program application requirements to be considered for admission into the programs.
International Students Excluded Programs
International students may apply to any Valencia College program, except the following:
-
Accelerated Nursing program
-
Allied Health Technical Certificate programs
-
Concurrent Nursing program
-
Allied Health Bachelor’s degree programs
-
Public Safety Certificate programs
All applicants must complete compliance and program application requirements to be considered for admission into the programs.